Commercial contractors design for people to move around easily.

The most livable cities are designed on a pedestrian scale, with restaurants, parks, and retail located within walking distance from housing and office buildings. To increase the “livability” of your space, ensure that everyone in the office can easily access amenities such as collaborative spaces, relaxation areas, and dining. In a large office, this may mean creating multiple “neighborhoods,” each with its own amenity spaces. This can pair well with an [link to our article about ABW – in progress]activity-based work model[/link], with each neighborhood customized to the work activities of its residents. In an office of any size, ensure that amenity spaces are conveniently located to encourage people to take advantage of them.

Oversized spaces can create a sense of isolation and discomfort. While a spacious atrium or lobby can make a powerful first impression, urban planners have learned that very large, open spaces often make people feel uneasy and disconnected. For areas where people will be spending a lot of time, opt for smaller, more enclosed spaces, or create a similar effect using dividers, furniture, and even plants.

The main takeaway is simple: Commercial Construction should design for people first. An office designed for ideals and aesthetics will make employees feel like an afterthought – but a functional, inviting office can foster the kind of environment that makes people excited to come to work.

At our core, the commercial construction firm Cox & Company strives to build long-term relationships through hard work, integrity and first-class customer service.